Imperialism in Belize

Imperialism in Belize

Cultural imperialism is the active promotion of one cultural system over another, such as the implantation of a new language, school system, or bureaucracy. Historically, cultural imperialism has been primarily associated with European colonialism. The most prevalent example of cultural imperialism is in the colonial period. European culture spread worldwide in the years of the colonial period, often replacing the indigenous culture (Globalization and Diversity 27). Also during this time period, “new languages were mandated, new educational systems were implanted, and new administrative institutions replaced the old” (Globalization and Diversity 27). Many things became altered in this time period, like the way people dressed, their food choices, organizations, and even gestures were added to existing cultures (Globalization and Diversity 27). Today cultural imperialism is not as prevalent; although, “many expressions of cultural imperialism carry a Western (even U.S.) tone—such as McDonald’s, MTV, KFC, Marlboro cigarettes, and the widespread use of English as the dominant language of the Internet (Globalization and Diversity 27).

Imperialism has been one of the biggest turning points in the nation of Belize. They have grown dramatically due to imperialism and it is slowly making them grow and profit as a country. According to John Everitt, cultural imperialism is defined as “the process whereby the culture of a weaker nation is dominated by that of a stronger nation.” In 1981 Belize separated and became an independent nation from the United Kingdom; they are now looking to Americanize their country. Since the change in their economy, cultural imperialism has been influenced in their country by both economic imperialism and socio-political imperialism. There is an abundance of land in Belize that is now owned by many US interests. In financial terms, the money system is also changing the currency in Belize which is now in dollar form. As far as production goes, Belize is sending exports such as sugar, seafood, and mangos. Most cars seen in Belize are also American made vehicles. For example, a couple American made cars seen in Belize are Ford and Chevrolet. On another note, the socio- political imperialism taking place in Belize is seen in their communication, migrations, and military. The United States has even agreed to provide training for the Belize defense force.

 

Works Cited:

Everlett, John. "Changing Patterns of Cultural Imperialism in a Developing Country." Eric (1982): n. pag. Web. 1 Dec. 2014. <http://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED219318>.

Ramos, Adele. "Sugar Exports Rebound, as Belize's Import Bill Reaches Record High." Amandala Newspaper. N.p., 1 Aug. 2014. Web. 02 Dec. 2014.

Rowntree, Lester, Martin Lewis, Marie Price, and William Wyckoff.Globalization and Diversity: Geography of a Changing World. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2008. Print

Figure sources:
Figure 1: https://www.google.com/search